St Mark's Church of England School

Overview

St Mark’s Church of England School is described as a place where pupils are “very caring towards others” and feel “included and valued for who they are.” The report highlights that leaders have successfully navigated significant changes, including the transition to new premises and all-through provision, while maintaining a “high quality of education.” Overall, the school is rated as Good across all inspection categories.

Strengths

• The curriculum is “well structured and ambitious for all pupils,” including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
• Pupils demonstrate strong personal development, engaging in debates on topics such as “animal rights, refugeehood, mutual respect and the rule of law.”
• Relationships between staff and pupils are “respectful and polite,” with bullying “not tolerated.”
• Governors are “skilled and knowledgeable,” providing “thoughtful challenge and support for leaders.”
• Staff feel “well supported by leaders regarding their well-being and workload.”

Areas to improve

• Phonics teaching is inconsistent; leaders must ensure all staff are “well trained to teach phonics effectively” so the youngest readers learn as quickly as they could.
• In some lessons and early years, teachers do not ensure pupils are clear about the knowledge they need to learn; leaders must ensure staff have the expertise to help pupils “embed their learning.”

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are effective, with staff alert to signs that pupils may need help and leaders taking timely actions to ensure pupils receive necessary support.